New chip: twice the speed, no increase in power appetite

IBM today launched its dual-core POWER6 processor. Running at 4.7 GHz, the new chip is twice as fast as its predecessor, but needs virtually the same amount of electricity to run and cool it.

It is incorporated into a new server that, according to several benchmark tests, is the fastest ever built in its class. The IBM System p 570 server also incorporates special hardware and software that allows it to create many “virtual” servers on a single box.

“Like the victory of IBM’s Deep Blue chess-playing supercomputer 10 years ago this month, the debut of POWER6 processor-based systems proves that relentless innovation brings ‘impossible’ goals within reach,” said Bill Zeitler, senior vice president, IBM Systems and Technology Group.

Learn more:
IBM Unleashes World's Fastest Chip in Powerful New Computer (press release)